Adesanya Vs Pereira: The Epic 2017 Kickboxing Clash

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most talked-about rivalries in combat sports – the one between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira. While their UFC fights have been nothing short of spectacular, many fans might not know that their history goes way back to their kickboxing days. Specifically, let’s break down their full fight from 2017. This showdown offers a unique glimpse into the early stages of their rivalry and highlights the skills that made them both legends in their own right.

Setting the Stage: Glory of Heroes 7

Before the bright lights of the UFC, Adesanya and Pereira clashed in a kickboxing match at Glory of Heroes 7, held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on April 1, 2017. At the time, both fighters were making names for themselves in the kickboxing world. Adesanya, known as "The Last Stylebender," had already built a reputation for his flashy striking, unorthodox movements, and incredible fight IQ. Pereira, nicknamed "Poatan" (which means "Stone Hand" in Portuguese), was feared for his immense power and knockout ability. This fight was not just another bout; it was a clash of styles and a battle for dominance in the middleweight division.

Adesanya's path to this fight was paved with impressive victories and a growing fanbase drawn to his unique style. His ability to blend various martial arts techniques seamlessly made him a difficult opponent to predict. On the other hand, Pereira was already recognized as one of the most dangerous strikers in the game. His stoic demeanor and devastating left hook had finished many opponents, making him a formidable force. The anticipation for this fight was palpable, with fans and analysts eager to see how Adesanya's technical brilliance would match up against Pereira's raw power.

The venue was electric, filled with passionate fans eager to witness this clash of titans. For Adesanya, it was an opportunity to prove himself against a top-tier opponent known for his knockout power. For Pereira, it was a chance to cement his status as one of the best kickboxers in the world and add another impressive win to his record. This fight was more than just a contest; it was a crucial moment in both fighters' careers, setting the stage for their future encounters.

The Clash: Round-by-Round Breakdown

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the fight. Round by round, we’ll dissect what went down between Adesanya and Pereira in their 2017 kickboxing match.

Round 1: Feeling Out Process

The first round began with both fighters cautiously circling each other, trying to gauge their opponent's timing and range. Adesanya, true to his style, used a lot of feints and footwork to keep Pereira guessing. He mixed in some sharp jabs and leg kicks to test Pereira's defense. Pereira, meanwhile, remained composed, patiently stalking Adesanya and looking for openings to unleash his power punches. He landed a couple of solid body kicks that seemed to get Adesanya's attention. Overall, it was a relatively even round, with both fighters having their moments, but neither gaining a significant advantage.

Adesanya focused on maintaining distance and utilizing his agility to avoid Pereira's power. His movement was fluid and unpredictable, making it difficult for Pereira to land clean shots. Pereira, on the other hand, was more methodical, conserving his energy and waiting for the right opportunity to strike. His body kicks were a clear indication of his strategy to slow Adesanya down and wear him out over the course of the fight. The round ended with both fighters exchanging a few more strikes, leaving the fans eager for the next round.

Round 2: Pereira Finds His Range

In the second round, Pereira started to find his range and began landing more consistently. He connected with several hard punches, including his signature left hook, which Adesanya managed to evade for the most part. However, the pressure from Pereira was mounting. Adesanya continued to use his movement to stay out of harm's way, but Pereira's forward pressure was making it increasingly difficult. Adesanya landed some nice counter-strikes, but they didn't seem to deter Pereira's aggression. By the end of the round, Pereira was clearly gaining momentum.

Pereira's confidence grew as he started to land more frequently. His left hook was a constant threat, and Adesanya had to be extremely cautious to avoid getting caught. The round showcased Pereira's ability to close the distance and impose his will on his opponents. Adesanya, despite his best efforts, was struggling to keep Pereira at bay and was forced to fight defensively for much of the round. The shift in momentum was evident, and Pereira seemed to be taking control of the fight.

Round 3: The Decisive Blow

The third round proved to be the most decisive. Pereira came out with increased intensity, backing Adesanya against the ropes. He unleashed a barrage of punches, and although Adesanya tried to defend and counter, Pereira's relentless pressure was too much. A devastating left hook from Pereira connected cleanly, sending Adesanya crashing to the canvas. Adesanya tried to get back to his feet, but he was clearly dazed, and the referee stopped the fight, declaring Pereira the winner by knockout.

The knockout was a testament to Pereira's incredible power and precision. His ability to set up the left hook and land it with such devastating force was a clear demonstration of his striking prowess. Adesanya, despite his best efforts, was unable to withstand the onslaught and succumbed to Pereira's relentless attack. The fight ended abruptly, leaving many fans stunned by the sudden turn of events. Pereira's victory was a significant moment in his career, solidifying his status as one of the top kickboxers in the world.

Key Moments and Turning Points

So, what were the real game-changers in this fight? Let’s break down the key moments and turning points that led to Pereira’s victory.

• Pereira's Pressure: From the second round onwards, Pereira's relentless forward pressure played a crucial role. He didn't give Adesanya the space to utilize his footwork and striking techniques effectively.
• Body Kicks: Pereira's early body kicks softened Adesanya up, potentially slowing him down and making him more vulnerable to punches later in the fight.
• The Left Hook: Of course, the most significant moment was the knockout blow – Pereira's signature left hook. It was perfectly timed and executed, leaving Adesanya unable to recover.

Adesanya's inability to maintain distance and control the pace of the fight ultimately led to his downfall. Pereira's strategy of applying constant pressure and targeting the body paid off, creating the opening for the decisive left hook. The fight was a clear demonstration of Pereira's power and resilience, as well as a learning experience for Adesanya in dealing with aggressive, high-pressure opponents.

The Aftermath and Rivalry Evolution

Following their 2017 kickboxing match, both Adesanya and Pereira continued to excel in their combat sports careers, eventually transitioning to mixed martial arts and joining the UFC. Their paths continued to intertwine, leading to highly anticipated rematches in the octagon.

Adesanya's Rise in the UFC

Adesanya quickly became one of the UFC's biggest stars, capturing the middleweight title and defending it multiple times. His striking skills, charisma, and unique personality made him a fan favorite. He showcased his growth as a fighter, demonstrating improved grappling and wrestling skills alongside his world-class striking.

Pereira's Transition to MMA

Pereira's transition to MMA was highly anticipated, given his kickboxing pedigree. He quickly made a name for himself with his knockout power, climbing the ranks and eventually earning a title shot against Adesanya in the UFC.

UFC 281: The Rematch

The first MMA fight between Adesanya and Pereira at UFC 281 was a thrilling contest. Adesanya controlled much of the fight with his striking, but Pereira rallied in the final round, securing a TKO victory and capturing the middleweight title. This win further solidified Pereira's reputation as Adesanya's kryptonite.

UFC 287: Adesanya's Redemption

The rematch at UFC 287 saw Adesanya finally overcome Pereira, knocking him out in the second round to reclaim the middleweight title. This victory was a significant moment for Adesanya, as he avenged his previous losses and proved his ability to adapt and overcome adversity.

The Legacy

The rivalry between Adesanya and Pereira has become one of the most compelling storylines in combat sports. Their fights are characterized by intense action, dramatic moments, and a deep level of respect between the two competitors. Whether in kickboxing or MMA, their clashes have consistently delivered excitement and intrigue, solidifying their places in combat sports history.

Lessons Learned

What can we take away from the 2017 fight and the subsequent clashes between Adesanya and Pereira? Here are a few key lessons:

• Adaptability is Key: Both fighters have shown the importance of adapting their strategies and techniques to different opponents and situations. Adesanya's ability to evolve his game in MMA was crucial to his success.
• Power Matters: Pereira's knockout power has been a constant threat throughout his career, demonstrating the impact that a single well-placed punch can have.
• Mental Fortitude: The rivalry has highlighted the importance of mental resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Adesanya's victory in the rematch at UFC 287 was a testament to his mental strength.

Final Thoughts

The 2017 kickboxing match between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira was just the beginning of an epic rivalry. It showcased their skills, styles, and the potential for future clashes. While Pereira won that initial encounter, the story didn't end there. Their subsequent fights in the UFC have added layers of complexity and excitement to their rivalry, captivating fans around the world. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to combat sports, the Adesanya vs. Pereira saga is one that deserves attention and appreciation. It's a testament to the dedication, skill, and competitive spirit of two of the greatest fighters of our time. So, what do you guys think about this rivalry? Let me know in the comments below!